2007 Pontiac Solstice
| HP/TQ | 177 hp, 166 lb-ft; 260 hp, 260 lb-ft |
| ENGINE | Ecotec 2.4 Liters, Inline four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC with variable valve timing; Ecotec turbo 2.0 Liters, Inline four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC with dual continuous variable valve timing and direct injection |
| Trans | Five-speed manual, five-speed automatic |
| Drive | Rear wheel drive |
What's New?Several new options such as spoilers and sport metallic pedals as well as a new exterior color (yellow) and convertible top color (Latte) are available. However, the big story is the turbocharged GXP model. This impressive turbocharged Inline-4 manages to keep up with some of the best in the sub $30k import market. Its 260 hp is the most of any in the Ecotec line, no doubt in part due to the extremely efficient direct injection system. The GXP model also receives larger diameter sway bars and sticky Goodyear Eagle F1 tires.
Advertised Perf0-60 mph in 7.2 sec., 60-0 in 116.5 ft, .90g lateral acceleration for base model
Base Price $ 21,995/26,995
Why Buy?Four-wheel sport-tuned independent suspension with Bilstein coil-overs, 50/50 weight distribution, under 3,000-lb curb weight, a slick shifting five-speed manual (and five-speed auto), 3.91 and 3.73 gear ratios, and two high-spinning motors make for hot sex on wheels. Check the box for the GXP model and you will not be disappointed when boost activates at around 3,000 rpm and kicks you in the pants. Trips to the pump won't be quite as frequent or painful as your F-body, either.
2007 Pontiac G6 GTP Coupe and Sedan
| HP/TQ | 252 hp, 251 lb-ft |
| ENGINE | 3.6 Liters, V-6, 24 valve DOHC with continuously variable valve timing |
| TRANS | Six-speed auto |
| DRIVE | Front-wheel drive |
What's New?While the old pushrod 3900 V-6 is still available in the GT models along with the six-speed manual and four-speed auto, they have been replaced on the GTP by an aluminum block, 10.2:1 compression DOHC V-6 and cutting edge six-speed auto.
Advertised PerfN/A
Price $24,915/25,115
Why buy?Welcome to a future with cammer Pontiacs. While the Corvette and upcoming Camaro aren't ready to deviate from their pushrod architecture, quick-revving DOHC engines are now finding their way into Ponchos. Time will tell if the General can pull a fast one on the imports with this impressive new motor and trans combo. Better get on board before GM realizes how under-priced these babies are.
2007 Saturn Sky
| HP/TQ | 177 hp, 166 lb-ft; 260 hp, 260 lb-ft |
| ENGINE | Ecotec 2.4 Liters, Inline four-cylinder, 16- valve DOHC with variable valve timing; Ecotec turbo 2.0 Liters, Inline four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC with dual continuous variable valve timing and direct injection |
| TRANS | Five-speed manual, five-speed automatic |
| DRIVE | Rear wheel drive |
What's New?The Sky is the sister to the Solstice and a cousin to the upcoming Opel GT in Europe. Based upon the Kappa platform, this IRS-equipped roadster shares its underpinnings, drivetrain and powertrain with the Solstice, however, styling is taken from a completely clean sheet of paper. This car is the flagship for the revamped Saturn lineup that, like the commercial says, is causing people to ask, "That's a Saturn?"
Advertised Perf0-60 mph in 7.2/5.5 sec., 15.7 at 89 mph/13.9 at 100 mph in the 1/4-mile
Base Price $25,195/28,895
Why Buy?A picture is worth a thousand words. Sexy styling combined with performance that is making the imports jealous, which is why they have been flying out of the showrooms since becoming available last summer. Finally an affordable roadster that you wouldn't be ashamed to be seen in that is perfect for Sunday drives, road racing and autocrossing. The Red Line's brake cooling ducts and beefier suspension, not to mention the extremely efficient direct injection turbo Ecotec that boasts the highest output per cubic inch of any GM engine, sweetens the deal even more.